ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has secured its immediate fuel supply for March and April, but the government is now moving toward stricter control measures as rising global energy pressures force a rethink of petroleum management. A high level review signalled both stability in supply and urgency in demand control.

The situation was assessed during a meeting of the committee chaired by Muhammad Aurangzeb, where officials confirmed that petrol cargoes had largely been secured and additional shipments were in the pipeline. Authorities described national fuel stocks as stable, supported by steady imports and consistent refinery output.

Officials said the supply chain from ports to refineries and retail outlets remains fully operational, ensuring uninterrupted availability. Refineries are functioning at normal capacity, maintaining optimal throughput despite shifting global market conditions and geopolitical uncertainties.

However, the focus is now shifting to consumption control. The government is actively considering a digital fuel rationing system through a mobile application, which would require citizens to register vehicles and receive a fixed fuel quota based on usage and availability.

The proposal comes amid growing concern that fuel consumption continues to rise despite increasing prices. Authorities believe a quota based system, combined with broader conservation measures, may be necessary to prevent future supply shocks and manage fiscal pressures.

At the same time, austerity measures are being expanded, including reduced fuel usage for official vehicles and potential provincial level actions. Officials emphasised that maintaining energy security remains the top priority, with close monitoring of global trends and domestic demand to ensure stability in Pakistan’s fuel market.